Where to Eat in Medellin
Paisa Classics to Try
<p>Start with the bandeja paisa, the regional feast of red beans, rice, ground beef, chicharron, fried egg, sweet plantain, avocado and an arepa. Other must tries are the arepa de chocolo with cheese, the warming sancocho stew, mondongo tripe soup and a frothy hot chocolate with cheese for breakfast. Wash it down with fresh juice in dozens of tropical flavors like lulo, maracuya and guanabana.</p><ul><li>Bandeja paisa, the iconic platter</li><li>Arepa de chocolo with cheese</li><li>Fresh tropical fruit juices</li></ul>
Best Areas to Eat
<p>Provenza and Parque Lleras in El Poblado pack the highest concentration of trendy restaurants, brunch spots and rooftop bars. Laureles around Carrera 70 is great for relaxed local dining and craft beer. The Mercado del Rio food hall is perfect when a group wants different cuisines at once, and Envigado has charming family run places. For traditional paisa cooking at fair prices, head to long standing restaurants in Sabaneta and the center.</p>
Markets and Street Food
<p>The Minorista and Placita de Flores markets are the place to taste fruit you have never seen, fresh juices and cheap home style plates. On the street, grab an arepa from a corner griddle, an empanada with aji sauce or a bag of chontaduro palm fruit with salt. Many tours combine these market stops with tastings, which is a safe and tasty way to dive into the local food culture.</p>
Frequently Asked Questions
What food is Medellin famous for?
Medellin is famous for the bandeja paisa, a hearty platter of beans, rice, pork, chorizo, egg, plantain, avocado and arepa, plus fresh tropical juices.
Where do locals eat in Medellin?
Locals eat menu del dia lunches in the center and Sabaneta, traditional restaurants for paisa food, and craft beer spots around Laureles and Carrera 70.
Is street food safe in Medellin?
Yes, street food is generally safe at busy, popular stalls. A guided food or market tour is a great way to try it with confidence.